Guy Fieri Brings the Heat to Naples: ‘Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives’ Highlights The Rooster and Cracklin’ Jacks

NAPLES, Fla. – Naples’ food scene just got a major boost from the Mayor of Flavortown himself. Celebrity chef Guy Fieri brought his iconic Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives to town, spotlighting two standout local restaurants: The Rooster Food+Drink and Cracklin’ Jacks.

The Rooster Food+Drink Hits the National Stage

Fieri and his production crew rolled into The Rooster Food+Drink at 600 Goodlette-Frank Road North, Suite 101, filming a segment that aired on January 24, 2025. Owned by Chef Bryan “Bubba” Sutton, The Rooster has long been a local favorite for its Southern-inspired comfort food with a creative twist.

During his visit, Fieri sampled some of the restaurant’s signature dishes, including their famous shrimp and grits, fried chicken biscuits, and house-made jams. Fans of the show got to see behind-the-scenes kitchen action as Chef Bubba walked Fieri through his unique takes on classic Southern flavors. The feature has already drawn new visitors and foodies eager to experience The Rooster’s elevated comfort food firsthand.

Cracklin’ Jacks Set to Sizzle on National TV

Up next, Cracklin’ Jacks, located at 2560 39th St. SW, will take center stage on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives on February 21, 2025, at 9 p.m. Known for its authentic down-home cooking, fresh catfish, and fall-off-the-bone ribs, Cracklin’ Jacks has been a beloved Naples institution for years.

Fieri’s visit highlighted the restaurant’s commitment to scratch-made, deep Southern flavors, including fried green tomatoes, country-fried steak, and their legendary slow-cooked barbecue ribs. Regulars and first-timers alike are now eagerly awaiting their chance to see Naples’ homegrown favorite hit the big screen.

Naples’ Culinary Scene Gets a National Spotlight

Fieri’s trip to Naples not only put these two restaurants on the Food Network map but also reinforced the city’s growing reputation as a must-visit culinary destination. The national exposure is expected to bring in more food lovers and tourists eager to taste what Naples has to offer.

If you missed The Rooster’s feature, you can catch it streaming on Food Network’s website or Discovery+. Be sure to tune in on February 21 to watch Cracklin’ Jacks get the Flavortown treatment!

For more local restaurant news and foodie features, stay tuned to Naples News Now.